Situation Model

Considering these dynamic elements of the situation can help to ground you with rational perspective. It can also give you some clues for approaching and intervening.

Source :

• Is the homophobia expressed by a single individual or by a group?
• Will you have a chance to engage the agent one-on-one or will you need to use group management skills?

Direction :

• Is it targeted at a specific person or group, or is it generalized?
• Do you need to attend to the needs of a targeted person who is present, or will you be dealing only with the agent?

Relationship :

What is the relationship between the agent and the target?

1. Identity of target
2. Identity of agent
3. Organizational Power Balance (staff/student, peers/colleagues, administration/staff)
4. Social Power Balance (race/ethnicity, gender, class, age)

Type of Action :

Which of Allport’s types of prejudiced action does it fit?

1. Antilocution
2. Avoidance
3. Discrimination
4. Physical Attack
5. Extermination

Be prepared to explain to the agents -- and anyone else involved or witnessing the incident -- the relationship of the homophobic behavior to other levels of discrimination and hate violence and their consequences.

Back to Intervening Against Homophobia